Cannabis Strains Guide
Explore 181 cannabis strains by their terpene and cannabinoid profiles. Understand how each strain's unique chemistry contributes to its effects and therapeutic potential.
Our strain database includes indica, sativa, and hybrid varieties with detailed therapeutic profiles. Use our condition-matching system to find strains optimized for pain, sleep, anxiety, and more.
Cannabis Strain FAQs
[+]What are cannabis strains?
Cannabis strains are distinct varieties of the cannabis plant with unique combinations of cannabinoids, terpenes, and effects. Each strain has a specific genetic lineage that determines its THC/CBD content, aroma, flavor, and therapeutic potential.
Strains are typically categorized as indica, sativa, or hybrid based on their genetic heritage and effects. Modern breeding has created thousands of unique strains.
Strain classifications based on genetic lineage and chemotype analysis.
[+]What is the difference between indica and sativa?
Indica strains typically produce relaxing, body-focused effects best for evening use, while sativa strains offer energizing, cerebral effects suited for daytime. Hybrid strains combine characteristics of both, with effects depending on their specific genetic makeup.
Modern research suggests terpene and cannabinoid profiles better predict effects than indica/sativa classification alone. Detailed chemotype information provides better guidance than simple indica/sativa labels.
Effects based on terpene and cannabinoid analysis rather than morphology alone.
[+]How do I choose the right cannabis strain?
Choose strains by matching your symptoms or goals with therapeutic profiles. Consider desired effects (relaxation vs energy), medical condition, THC tolerance, preferred consumption time, and terpene preferences when selecting a strain.
Strain databases can rate each strain for specific conditions like chronic pain, anxiety, and insomnia using evidence-based terpene and cannabinoid matching algorithms.
Strain matching based on published research on cannabinoid and terpene effects.
[+]What are hybrid cannabis strains?
Hybrid strains are crosses between indica and sativa genetics, combining effects from both parent types. Hybrids are described as indica-dominant, sativa-dominant, or balanced depending on which effects predominate based on their specific terpene and cannabinoid ratios.
Most modern strains are hybrids, carefully bred to emphasize specific effects, flavors, or growing characteristics. Popular hybrids include Blue Dream, OG Kush, and Girl Scout Cookies.
Hybrid classifications based on reported effects and genetic lineage.
[+]What is THC and how does it affect strains?
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis. Higher THC strains (20-30%+) produce stronger effects and are suited for experienced users, while lower THC options (10-15%) offer milder experiences for beginners.
THC interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system to produce effects like euphoria, relaxation, pain relief, and appetite stimulation. Effects vary based on terpene profiles.
THC percentages from lab testing data.
[+]What is CBD and which strains have the most?
CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid popular for therapeutic benefits without strong psychoactive effects. High-CBD strains like ACDC, Harlequin, and Charlotte's Web contain 10-20% CBD with minimal THC.
CBD may help with anxiety, inflammation, and seizures. High-CBD strains and 1:1 THC:CBD ratios are popular for medical use.
CBD percentages from laboratory testing results.
[+]What are terpenes and why do they matter?
Terpenes are the aromatic compounds that give each cannabis strain its unique smell and flavor. Terpenes like myrcene, limonene, and linalool also influence effects through the entourage effect, working synergistically with cannabinoids.
Myrcene promotes relaxation, limonene elevates mood, pinene aids focus, and linalool reduces anxiety. Understanding terpenes helps predict a strain's effects beyond THC/CBD content.
Terpene effects based on published pharmacological research.
[+]What strains are best for pain relief?
Strains high in myrcene, caryophyllene, and THC are recommended for pain relief. Top-rated pain strains include ACDC, Harlequin, White Widow, and Granddaddy Purple. Indica-dominant strains with sedating effects often provide the strongest body-focused pain relief.
Caryophyllene binds to CB2 receptors associated with inflammation. Many patients prefer high-CBD options like ACDC for pain without strong intoxication.
Strain recommendations based on terpene profiles and patient reports.
[+]What strains are best for anxiety?
Strains with balanced THC:CBD ratios and high linalool or limonene content are recommended for anxiety. Top anxiety strains include Harlequin, Cannatonic, Granddaddy Purple, and ACDC. Lower THC strains (under 15%) are generally better for anxiety-prone patients.
High THC can worsen anxiety in some patients. CBD may counteract THC-induced anxiety. Start with low doses and strains known for calming effects.
Recommendations based on cannabinoid ratios and patient outcome data.
[+]What strains are best for sleep?
Indica strains high in myrcene and CBN are recommended for insomnia. Top sleep strains include Granddaddy Purple, Northern Lights, Bubba Kush, and Purple Punch. These strains are best consumed 1-2 hours before bedtime for optimal sedating effects.
Myrcene is a sedating terpene found in mangoes and hops. Aged cannabis with higher CBN content may enhance sleep effects. Avoid sativa strains before bed.
Sleep strain recommendations based on terpene profiles and user reports.
[+]How do I read a cannabis strain label?
Cannabis strain labels show THC percentage (potency), CBD percentage, terpene profile (effects/aroma), harvest date, and testing results. Look for strains tested within 6 months with clear cannabinoid and terpene percentages.
Reputable dispensaries provide Certificates of Analysis (COA) with detailed testing data to help patients make informed choices.
Label reading guidance based on state testing requirements.
[+]What are landrace strains?
Landrace strains are pure, indigenous cannabis varieties that developed naturally in specific geographic regions. Famous landrace strains include Afghan Kush, Thai, Durban Poison, and Acapulco Gold, which form the genetic foundation for modern hybrid strains.
Landrace strains offer stable genetics and consistent effects. They're valued by breeders for creating new hybrids and preserving cannabis genetic diversity.
Landrace strain origins based on documented cannabis genetics history.
Find Your Perfect Strain
Use our condition-matching tool to find strains therapeutically matched to your needs. Select a condition from the filter below and we'll rank all 181 strains by therapeutic match score based on their terpene and cannabinoid profiles. New to cannabis? Start with our beginner guide below.
First-Time Cannabis Strain Buyer Guide
New to cannabis? Here's everything you need to know to choose the right strain and have a positive first experience.
Understanding Labels
- THC % indicates potency (10-15% for beginners)
- CBD % shows non-intoxicating cannabinoid content
- Terpene profile determines aroma and effects
- Check harvest date (fresher = better)
- Request COA (Certificate of Analysis)
Indica vs Sativa vs Hybrid
- Indica: Relaxing, body-focused, evening use
- Sativa: Energizing, cerebral, daytime use
- Hybrid: Balanced effects from both types
- Terpenes matter more than type labels
- Start with hybrid for balanced experience
Starting Doses
- Edibles: Start with 2.5-5mg THC
- Flower: One small puff, wait 15 minutes
- Vape: Single 3-second inhale to start
- Increase gradually over days, not hours
- Keep a dosing journal to track effects
Consumption Methods
- Smoking: Fastest onset (5-15 min), 1-3 hour duration
- Vaping: Cleaner than smoking, similar onset
- Edibles: Slow onset (1-2 hrs), long duration (4-8 hrs)
- Tinctures: Sublingual = faster, swallowed = slower
- Strain choice matters most for flower/vape
Talking to Budtenders
- Describe your symptoms or goals clearly
- Mention your experience level (first-timer)
- Ask about THC/CBD ratios for your needs
- Request strain recommendations by effect
- Don't hesitate to ask questions!
Common Beginner Mistakes
- Avoid high-THC strains (25%+) on first try
- Don't mix multiple strains in one session
- Wait before re-dosing (especially edibles)
- Have CBD on hand to counteract THC anxiety
- Start in a comfortable, safe environment
Indica vs Sativa vs Hybrid: What's the Difference?
Understanding strain types helps you predict effects, though terpene profiles are increasingly recognized as better predictors.
| Aspect | Indica | Sativa | Hybrid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical Effects | Relaxing, body high, sedating, "couch lock" | Energizing, cerebral, uplifting, creative | Balanced or dominant traits from either parent |
| Best Time of Use | Evening / Night | Morning / Afternoon | Varies by dominance |
| Common Conditions | Pain, insomnia, anxiety, muscle spasms | Depression, fatigue, focus, creativity | Versatile - depends on specific genetics |
| THC/CBD Tendency | Often higher CBD ratios | Often higher THC ratios | Varies widely by strain |
| Dominant Terpenes | Myrcene, linalool, caryophyllene | Limonene, pinene, terpinolene | Mixed profiles |
| Example Strains | Granddaddy Purple, Northern Lights, Bubba Kush | Jack Herer, Durban Poison, Sour Diesel | Blue Dream, OG Kush, Girl Scout Cookies |
Note: Modern cannabis research suggests that terpene and cannabinoid profiles are better predictors of effects than indica/sativa classification alone. Many "indica" and "sativa" labels are based on plant morphology rather than chemical composition. Use our therapeutic matching system for more accurate strain selection.
Why Understanding Strains Matters for Your Treatment
Choosing the right strain isn't just about preference—it directly impacts your therapeutic outcomes and overall experience.
Targeted Relief
Match specific cannabinoid and terpene profiles to your symptoms. Pain strains differ from anxiety strains—knowing the difference means better relief.
Avoid Side Effects
Choose strains less likely to cause unwanted effects. High-THC strains may trigger anxiety in some patients; knowing alternatives prevents bad experiences.
Optimize Timing
Use energizing strains for productive mornings and sedating strains for restful nights. Time-matched strains improve daily function and sleep quality.
Save Money
Stop buying strains that don't work for you. Understanding what you need means fewer wasted purchases and more effective treatment per dollar spent.
Reproducible Results
Find strains you can repurchase consistently. Knowing genetic families and terpene profiles helps you find similar options when favorites are unavailable.
Better Dispensary Experience
Walk in knowing what to ask for. Educated patients get better recommendations and build productive relationships with knowledgeable budtenders.
Popular Strains by Condition
Quick-reference guide to top-rated strains for common medical conditions based on terpene profiles and patient reports.
Pain Relief
High myrcene and caryophyllene for anti-inflammatory effects
Sleep & Insomnia
Myrcene-dominant indicas with sedating terpene profiles
Anxiety
Balanced THC:CBD ratios with linalool for calming effects
Focus & Energy
Pinene and limonene-dominant sativas for mental clarity
Depression
Limonene-rich strains for mood elevation
Nausea & Appetite
THC-rich strains known for appetite stimulation
How Strain Choice Varies by Consumption Method
Different consumption methods affect how strains express their characteristics. Here's what to consider.
Flower / Smoking
Full terpene expression with fastest onset. Strain selection is most important here—you'll taste and smell the complete profile. Choose based on desired effects and flavor preferences.
Vaporizing
Preserves more terpenes than smoking at lower temperatures. Choose strains with complex terpene profiles for enhanced flavor. Effects are similar to smoking but often described as 'cleaner.'
Edibles
Strain matters less since processing degrades terpenes. Focus on THC/CBD ratios rather than specific strains. Effects last longer (4-8 hours) and feel different due to liver metabolism.
Tinctures & Oils
Strain-specific tinctures preserve more effects than edibles. Sublingual absorption is faster (15-30 min) than swallowing. Choose full-spectrum products to maintain entourage effect.
Showing 181 of 181 strains
Blue Dream
Blueberry x Haze
OG Kush
Chemdawg x Hindu Kush (suspected)
Granddaddy Purple
Purple Urkle x Big Bud
Girl Scout Cookies
OG Kush x Durban Poison
Sour Diesel
Chemdawg 91 x Super Skunk (disputed)
Northern Lights
Thai x Afghani landraces
Jack Herer
Haze x (NL#5 x Shiva Skunk)
White Widow
Brazilian Sativa x South Indian Indica
ACDC
Cannatonic phenotype
Harlequin
Colombian Gold x Thai x Swiss Landrace x Nepali Indica
Durban Poison
South African Landrace
Wedding Cake
Triangle Kush x Animal Mints
Gorilla Glue
Chem Sister x Sour Dubb x Chocolate Diesel
Gelato
Sunset Sherbet x Thin Mint Girl Scout Cookies
Purple Punch
Larry OG x Granddaddy Purple
Green Crack
Skunk #1 (suspected)
Bubba Kush
OG Kush x Unknown Indica (possibly Northern Lights)
Skywalker OG
Skywalker x OG Kush
Pineapple Express
Trainwreck x Hawaiian
Charlotte's Web
Unknown (proprietary)
Zkittlez
Grape Ape x Grapefruit x Unknown
Do-Si-Dos
Girl Scout Cookies x Face Off OG
Chemdawg
Unknown (legendary mystery genetics)
Strawberry Cough
Strawberry Fields x Haze
LA Confidential
OG LA Affie x Afghani
Runtz
Gelato × Zkittlez
Ice Cream Cake
Wedding Cake x Gelato #33
GMO Cookies
Chemdawg x Girl Scout Cookies
Apple Fritter
Sour Apple × Animal Cookies
Trainwreck
Mexican x Thai x Afghani
Mimosa
Clementine × Purple Punch
MAC
Alien Cookies × Starfighter × Columbian
Gushers
Gelato #41 x Triangle Kush
Slurricane
Do-Si-Dos x Purple Punch
Cherry Pie
Granddaddy Purple x F1 Durb
Purple Kush
Purple Afghani × Hindu Kush
Grape Ape
Mendocino Purps x Skunk x Afghani
Tangie
California Orange × Skunk #1
Super Lemon Haze
Lemon Skunk × Super Silver Haze
Super Silver Haze
Skunk #1 × Northern Lights × Haze
AK-47
Colombian × Mexican × Thai × Afghani
Hindu Kush
Landrace from Hindu Kush Mountains
Afghani
Afghan Landrace
Acapulco Gold
Mexican Landrace
Maui Wowie
Hawaiian Landrace
Blueberry
Afghani × Thai × Purple Thai
Mango
Afghani × KC 33
Forbidden Fruit
Tangie × Cherry Pie
Lemon Tree
Lemon Skunk × Sour Diesel
Tropicana Cookies
Girl Scout Cookies × Tangie
Permanent Marker
Biscotti × Sherb BX × Jealousy
Gelonade
Gelato 41 × Lemon Tree
Banana Kush
Ghost OG x Skunk Haze
Master Kush
Hindu Kush × Hindu Kush
Peanut Butter Breath
Do-Si-Dos × Mendo Breath
Strawberry Banana
Banana Kush × Bubble Gum
Biscotti
Gelato #25 x South Florida OG
Gary Payton
The Y (Y Griega) x Snowman
Cereal Milk
Snowman x Y-Life
Lemon Cherry Gelato
Sunset Sherbet × Girl Scout Cookies
Rainbow Belts
Zkittlez × Moonbow
Kush Mints
Bubba Kush x Animal Mints
Headband
OG Kush × Sour Diesel
LA Kush Cake
Wedding Cake × Kush Mints
Chocolate Thai
Thai Landrace
Haze
Colombian × Mexican × Thai × South Indian
Skunk #1
Afghan × Mexican × Colombian
Chocolope
Chocolate Thai × Cannalope Haze
Bruce Banner
OG Kush × Strawberry Diesel
9 Pound Hammer
Gooberry × Hells OG × Jack the Ripper
Purple Urkle
Mendocino Purps phenotype
Blackberry Kush
Afghani × Blackberry
Pink Kush
OG Kush phenotype
Mendo Breath
OG Kush Breath × Mendo Montage
Motorbreath
Chemdawg × SFV OG Kush
Alien OG
Tahoe OG × Alien Kush
Key Lime Pie
Girl Scout Cookies × Cherry Pie
Grape Pie
Cherry Pie × Grape Stomper
Orange Creamsicle
Orange Crush × Juicy Fruit
Blueberry Muffins
Blueberry × Purple Panty Dropper
Stardawg
Chemdawg 4 × Tres Dawg
Dutch Treat
Northern Lights × Haze
Cheese
Skunk #1 phenotype
Candyland
Granddaddy Purple × Platinum Cookies
Fruity Pebbles
Green Ribbon × Granddaddy Purple × Tahoe Alien
Lava Cake
Thin Mint GSC × Grape Pie
Triangle Kush
OG Kush (Florida cut)
Bubble Gum
Indiana Bubble Gum
Papaya
Citral #13 x Ice #2
Guava
Gelato × Stardawg
Lamb's Bread
Jamaican Landrace
Island Sweet Skunk
Skunk #1 × Sweet Skunk
White Fire OG
Fire OG × The White
SFV OG
OG Kush (San Fernando Valley cut)
Zookies
Animal Cookies × Gorilla Glue #4
Watermelon Zkittlez
Zkittlez × Watermelon
White Rhino
White Widow × North American Indica
MK Ultra
OG Kush × G13
Pennywise
Harlequin × Jack the Ripper
Ghost Train Haze
Ghost OG × Neville's Wreck
Animal Cookies
Girl Scout Cookies × Fire OG
Khalifa Kush
OG Kush phenotype
Jealousy
Gelato #41 x Sherbert Bx1
RS11 (Rainbow Sherbert #11)
Pink Guava x OZK
White Runtz
Gelato x Zkittlez (phenotype)
Zoap
Rainbow Sherbet x Pink Guava
Super Boof
Black Cherry Punch x Tropicana Cookies
London Pound Cake
Sunset Sherbet x Unknown Indica
Sunset Sherbet
Girl Scout Cookies x Pink Panties
Blue Zushi
Zkittlez x Kush Mints
Wedding Crasher
Wedding Cake x Purple Punch
Apples and Bananas
(Platinum Cookies x GDP x Blue Power) x Gelatti
Lemon Haze
Lemon Skunk x Silver Haze
Lemon Skunk
Skunk #1 pheno x Skunk #1 pheno
Thin Mint Cookies
OG Kush x Durban Poison
Platinum Cookies
OG Kush x Durban Poison (GSC variant)
Amnesia Haze
Afghani Hawaiian x (Thai x Jamaican x Laotian)
Gelato 41
Sunset Sherbet x Thin Mint Cookies
Gelato 33
Sunset Sherbet x Thin Mint Cookies
Banana OG
OG Kush x Banana
Cookies and Cream
Starfighter x GSC phenotype
Gelato Cake
Gelato 33 x Wedding Cake
Jenny Kush
Amnesia Haze x Rare Dankness #2
Rainbow Sherbet
Champagne x Blackberry
Kitchen Sink
Sundae Driver x GMO x Grape Pie
Jet Fuel
High Country Diesel x Aspen OG
Frosted Flakes
Unknown proprietary genetics
Kosher Kush
OG Kush descendant (clone-only)
Alaskan Thunder Fuck
Northern California Sativa x Russian ruderalis x Afghani
Orange Cookies
Orange Juice x GSC
G13
Unknown (legendary/disputed)
Cannatonic
MK Ultra x G13 Haze
Ringo's Gift
ACDC x Harle-Tsu
Sour Tsunami
Sour Diesel x NYC Diesel
Remedy
Afghan Skunk x Cannatonic
Harle-Tsu
Harlequin x Sour Tsunami
White Truffle
Gorilla Butter phenotype (GG4 x Peanut Butter Breath)
Tropicana Cherry
Tropicana Cookies x Cherry Cookies F3
Oreoz
Cookies and Cream x Secret Weapon
Chimera
Pablo's Revenge
Triple Burger
GMO x Double Burger
Hash Burger
Han Solo Burger x French Cookies
OMG (Original Miracle Grow)
GMO x Grape Pie
Pure Michigan
Oreoz x Mendo Breath
Tahoe OG
SFV OG x Unknown OG
Fire OG
OG Kush x SFV OG
King Louis XIII
OG Kush x Unknown LA strain
Dosidos
Face Off OG x GSC
Sherb Cake
Sunset Sherbet x Wedding Cake
Garlicane
Slurricane x GMO
Wedding Pie
Wedding Cake x Grape Pie
Blue Cheese
Blueberry x UK Cheese
Lavender
Super Skunk x Big Skunk Korean x Afghan Hawaiian
Herijuana
Petrolia Headstash x Killer New Haven
Sour Tangie
East Coast Sour Diesel x Tangie
Clementine
Tangie x Lemon Skunk
Blue Runtz
Gelato x Zkittlez (blue pheno)
Strawberry Gelato
Strawberry x Gelato
Blue Lobster
Spritzer
Runtz x Grape Pie
Horchata
Mochi Gelato x Jet Fuel Gelato
Grease Monkey
Gorilla Glue #4 x Cookies and Cream
The Toad
Unknown Mike Tyson genetics
Animal Mints
Animal Cookies x SinMint Cookies
Toad Venom
Snowman
GSC phenotype
Platinum OG
Master Kush x OG Kush x Unknown
Mint Chocolate Chip
SinMint Cookies x Green Ribbon BX
Apple Mintz
Apple Fritter x Kush Mints
Berry Zkittlez
Zkittlez x Berry
Blackberry Caviar
Honey Banana
Panama Red
Pure Panama landrace
J1
Skunk #1 x Jack Herer
Georgia Pie
Gelatti x Kush Mints
Modified Grapes
GMO x Purple Punch
Banana Cream Cake
Wedding Cake x (Banana OG x Cookies/Cream)
Pancakes
London Pound Cake x Kush Mints #11
Tangerine Dream
G13 x Afghani x Neville's A5 Haze
Purple Runtz
Gelato x Zkittlez (purple pheno)
Deepen Your Cannabis Knowledge
Understanding strains is just the beginning. Explore our educational resources on terpenes, cannabinoids, and the science behind cannabis effects.
Genetic Families
Discover the 13 major cannabis genetic families — from Kush and Haze to Cookies and Diesel. Understand lineage connections and why related strains share similar effects.
Explore Genetic FamiliesTherapeutic Profiles
Learn how terpenes and cannabinoids work together to create each strain's unique effects. Our matching system helps you find strains aligned with wellness goals.
Learn About ProfilesLast Updated: January 2026 · Content Legislative Compliance Verified by John Progar, CEO & Founder